A Region at the Head of the Table

Gastronomy
A Region at the
Head of the Table
A Guide Chef
of Piedmont

The Chefs of Piedmont
2

Contents
1
Riccardo Aiachini Alessandria p.14
26
Mariangela Marone Carcoforo (VC) p.39
2
Antonio Angelo Angiulli Candelo (BI) p.15
27
Gianfranco Massolino Monforte d’Alba (CN) p.40
3
Giuseppina Bagliardi Asti p.16
28
Massimo Milan Borgovercelli (VC) p.41
4
Maria Barale Boves (CN) p.17
29
Elide Mollo Priocca (CN) p.42
5
Fabio Barbaglini Trecate (NO) p.18
30
Maria Occhetti Vezza d’Alba (CN) p.43
6
Pierangelo Bertinotti Borgomanero (NO) p.19
31
Giuseppe Palermino Montemagno (AT) p.44
7
Marco Boschiazzo La Morra (CN) p.20
32
Davide Palluda Canale (CN) p.45
8
Piercarlo Bussetti Torino p.21
33
Massimo Quaglia Faccio Torino p.46
9
Massimo Camia Barolo (CN) p.22
34
Maurizio Quaranta Alba (CN) p.47
10
Bruna Cane Cassinasco (AT) p.23
35
Mariuccia Roggero Ferrero Canelli (AT) p.48
11
Antonino Cannavacciuolo Orta S.Giulio (NO) p.24
36
Alfredo Russo Ciriè (TO) p.49
12
Fausto Carrara Cherasco (CN) p.25
37
Marco Sacco Verbania p.50
13
Pierluigi Consonni Torino p.26
38
Davide Scabin Rivoli (TO) p.51
14
Maurizio Cornero Castello d’Annone (AT) p.27
39
Flavio Scaiola Barbaresco (CN) p.52
15
Renato Dominici Carmagnola (TO) p.28
40
Fulvio Siccardi Piobesi d’Alba (CN) p.53
16
Walter Eynard Torre Pellice (TO) p.29
41
Alessandra Strocco Tigliole (AT) p.54
17
18
19
20
21
Walter Ferretto p.30
Acqui Terme (AL) - Isola d’Asti (AT)
Osvaldo Forlino Gavi (AL) p.31
Maurilio Garola Treiso (CN) p.32
Cesare Giaccone Albaretto della Torre (CN) p.33
Marta Grassi Novara p.34
42
43
44
45
46
Mariangela Susigan Caluso (TO) p.57
Davide Testa Saluzzo (CN) p.55
Erik Trozza Ciriè (TO) p.56
Andrea Vannelli Torino p.57
Lidia Vanzino Alciati e Luca Zecchin p.58
Santo Stefano Belbo (TO)
22
Patrizia Grossi Casale Monferrato (AL) p.35
47
Pier Giuseppe Viazzi Cavaglietto (NO) p.59
23
Vera Lo Nardo Neive (CN) p.36
48
Claudio Vicina Mazzaretto Torino p.60
24
Luisa Marelli Valazza Soriso (NO) p.37
49
Sergio Vineis Pollone (BI) p.61
25
Andrea Marino Barbaresco (CN) p.38
50 Gian Piero Vivalda Cervere (CN) p.62
3

Foreword
4

A Region at the Head of the Table
Italian cooking is, as we know, among the most
popular in the world. Universally famous
products, restaurants and top chefs lead the
way wherever they are.
But while eating and drinking Italian style is the
fashion throughout the continents, one of the
great pleasures in life is discovering that magical
association which is created between cooking,
products and the area. An unrepeatable alchemy
which can only be experienced by visiting a place,
its colours and fragrances. Tasting products right
where they’re made. Meeting the chefs who make
them into unique creations.
Piedmont is not only the region producing the
treasures of Italian wine and gastronomy such as
Barolo, Barbaresco, Asti, Tartufo Bianco d’Alba and
Nocciola Tonda Gentile. With its 369 recognised
typical products, 45 D.O.C. wines and 8 D.O.C.G.
wines Piedmont is a paradise which has said no to
Genetically Modified Organisms. It is the happy land
where for a chef it’s easy to put his ideas into practice, to
use his skill and imagination to create unforgettable taste
experiences.
That’s why A Region at the Head of the Table is not just a
guide to the best restaurants in Piedmont. It’s a guide to
the best chefs of Piedmont. Maîtres à penser who tell the
stories, secrets and philosophies of such creators of taste.
Artists of flavour who open the doors of their secret atelier to
those capable of appreciating them.
Fifty-one great chefs of A Region at the Head of the Table
have been awarded the highest scores and awards by Italian
and international gastronomic guides. They are creative artists
who have a precise, strong and firm idea of the ingredients, of
how to make them into works of art, present them and complete
them to form a complete and satisfying sensorial experience.
Discovering Piedmont without encountering them would be a
shame. Because finding out about their cooking is the most
pleasant and attractive manner of discovering Piedmont.
Ettore Racchelli
Counsellor for Tourism, Sport and the 2006 Olympics
of the Piedmont Regional Authority
5

Piedmont in the guides
The initial analyses for this study were based on some of the field’s most authoritative
guides to Italian restaurants – Michelin, Gambero Rosso, Espresso, Touring Club,
Veronelli, Accademia della Cucina Italiana and SlowFood. These guides were used to
discern the nature of what Piedmont offers in culinary terms compared with the other
Italian regions, to determine what sets apart its particular excellence, and to formulate
some economic considerations with regard to prices.
An accurate analysis of the best Piedmont has to offer – based on the Michelin Red Guide
(2003 and 2004 edition), the Guida ai Ristoranti d’Italia Gambero Rosso 2004, and the
Guida ai Ristoranti de L’Espresso 2004 – made it possible to identify the master chefs
who are presented in the following pages and who collaborated in creating this guide.
Piedmont’s restaurants in the guides
Piedmont is always among the regions with the most restaurants cited in the guides.
Its chief competitor is Lombardy, followed by Tuscany and Emilia Romagna.
Our region is third for the number of restaurants cited in L’Espresso, with some 230
listings, surpassed only by Lombardy (first with 350 listings) and Tuscany (second with
250 listings). In the other guides, Piedmont holds the fifth position after Lombardy,
Latium, Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna in the Gambero Rosso, and after Lombardy,
Tuscany, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna in the Michelin.
600
Number of restaurants cited – 2004 editions of guides
500
400
300
200
100
0
Lombardy
Tuscany
Veneto
Emilia Romagna
Piedmont
Liguria
Latium
Campania
Sicily
Trentino-South Tyrol
Apulia
Fruili-Venezia Giulia
Marches
Umbria
Sardegna
Abruzzo
Calabria
Aosta Valley
Basilicata
Molise
Citations in Michelin Citations in Espresso Citations in Gambero Rosso
Piedmont is second in Italy for the number of starred restaurants – yet more evidence of
the high standing of our restaurants.
6

A glance at the prices 2004
In considering the approximate prices for a meal in the restaurants cited in the 2004
Michelin guide, an interesting fact emerges: in Piedmont, one spends an average of 30,18
€ to 44,01 €, wine excluded. These figures are the result of averaging the minimum and
maximum prices of the restaurants mentioned. Calculating the same data for Italy’s other
regions and charting them progressively, it becomes apparent that Piedmont is positioned
in the second half of the diagram. Lunching in Lombardy and Tuscany requires,
respectively, from 33,71 € to 49,72 € and from 32,18 € to 46,67 €.
Michelin 2004 – Average price range
€ 55,00
€ 50,00
€ 45,00
€ 40,00
€ 35,00
€ 30,00
€ 25,00
Minimum
Maximum
€ 20,00
Liguria
Lombardy
Latium
Aosta Valley
Campania
Marches
Sardegna
Tuscany
Veneto
Emilia Romagna
Trentino-South Tyrol
Piedmont
Umbria
Fruili-Venezia Giulia
Sicily
Abruzzo
Apulia
Molise
Calabria
Basilicata
It’s clear that Piedmontese restaurants enjoy a good quality-price ratio: to its merit,
cooking throughout the Piedmont region is associated with more modest prices
compared with other competing regions. Taking in particular Piedmont, Tuscany and
Umbria – regions similar in their type of gastronomic appeal – the variation in prices
compared with those of 2003 was also assessed: on average, Piedmont’s
minimum/maximum price range increased less than Tuscany’s did, albeit more than the
average variation for Umbria’s restaurants.
REGION
Minimum
Average
Price
2003* 2004 2004 vs 2003*
Maximum
Average
Price
Minimum
Average
Price
Maximum
Average
Price
Minimum
Average
Price
Maximum
Average
Price
PIEDMONT € 29,58 € 43,19 € 30,18 € 44,01 € 0,60 € 0,82
TUSCANY € 31,07 € 45,32 € 32,14 € 46,60 € 1,07 € 1,29
UMBRIA € 28,73 € 41,62 € 27,85 € 42,10 -€ 0,88 € 0,48
*Michelin Guide 2003
Limiting the analysis to only starred restaurants, the price range once again shows that
Piedmont offers first-rate cuisine with an excellent quality-price ratio.
7

The Best Restaurants and Chefs
The selected chefs
What are the best restaurants in Piedmont
and who are the masters of its haut
cuisine? What sets them apart?
The criteria
To draw up this list of the best chefs, a
criterion was established – as objective
as possible – that would meet the
following requirements:
• “Verifiability”: it was decided that
only guides commonly available in
bookshops would be used;
• “Simplicity”: the three guides considered
to be the most important by those active
in the field were taken into account
(Michelin, Espresso, Gambero Rosso);
• “Soundness” in the event of any
conflicts between a restaurant and any
one guide: the “two out of three” rule
was adopted, i.e. excellent reviews in
at least two out of three guides;
• “Adaptability” in the event of any
sudden changes (e.g., relocation): the
“two-year” rule was applied, i.e.
excellent reviews for at least one of the
two years from 2003-2004.
The parameters evaluated to determine
excellence are thus based on the ratings
given in the 2004 and/or 2003 editions of
the three guides taken into account. A chef
is considered one of the best if his or her
restaurant is cited in at least two out of
three guides of the same year, and received
ratings that fall into the following limits:
• Michelin: one or more stars;
• Espresso: rating greater than or equal to
14/20;
• Gambero Rosso: rating greater than or
equal to 80/100;
8
These criteria allowed us to single out the
best chefs, who personally tell their stories
in this guide.
The restaurants close up
What kind of atmospheres do the best
restaurants provide? For what events are
they suited? How is their service, in terms
of personnel and professional skills? And,
above all, what cuisine do they offer?
The atmosphere
Ambience and refinement
The atmospheres in which the best chefs
work are characterised by the particular
refinement of the rooms, furnishings and
table compositions (40% of responses); in
fact, the attention to and care taken with the
smallest details are considered decisive
elements in assuring that the “journey”
across the flavours offered by the chef is
experienced with the greatest possible
intensity. It is a matter of richly evocative
spaces: The restaurants are frequently
located within historical buildings, castles,
aristocratic villas, and ancient dwellings – all
restored and skilfully converted (over 15%).
Percentage of restaurants (%)
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Atmospheric
Sophisticated
Rustic/Elegant
Historical

Percentage of restaurants (%)
20
15
10
5
0
The seating
Quality is in small numbers
15 25 35 45 55 65 75 85 95 105 115 125 135 145 155
Seating Capacity
The restaurants are limited in size. On
average, they seat 50. Only 2 restaurants
profess to seating more than 100; over
80% seat less than 70. It seems clear that
in order to offer customers the best, in
terms of attention and quality, it simply
isn’t possible to cater to large numbers.
The dining rooms
The intimacy of the rooms
Almost 40% of the restaurants have 2
separate dining rooms. Over 25% have at
least 3.
The kitchen service
The staff
30% of the restaurants have a permanent
kitchen staff of 4 persons. On average, 4.19
persons are present in the kitchen, a figure
that reveals an increase with respect to the
average of the sample surveyed in 2002, in
which the results came to 3.5 employees.
The wait service
In the dining rooms, an average of 3.35
persons of various capabilities and skills are
present, ripened through devoted studies or
many years of experience in the field. Here,
too, the average has risen with respect to the
2.91 that was the result of the previous
survey. This reinforcement of service in
terms of permanent personnel (keeping in
mind occasional and seasonal help as well) is
a sign of a new boost to the quality on offer,
and of employment potential in the field.
The professional skills
75% of restaurants boast waiters who
speak at least two foreign languages and,
in over 60% of cases, there is a sommelier
to help guide and advise customers in their
choice of wines to go with their selection
from the menu; one in two restaurants has
a maitre.
80
70
Percentage of restaurants (%)
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Kitchen – Staff members
Percentage of restaurants (%)
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Maitre d’hôtel
Sommelier
Waiters
Professions
Other
9

The cuisine
New interpretations and tradition
The best chefs are masters of their art, which
they express by preparing “reinvented”
dishes. Over 70% offer a creative cuisine
that, whether or not it uses typical local
products, always uses only ingredients of the
highest quality, prepared and combined in
new ways. The characteristic regional
cuisine, offered by 60% of the chefs,
confirms their strong ties to the place in
which they live and work, whether they are
Piedmontese by birth or adoption.
Percentage of restaurants (%)
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Tasting
A la Carte
Other
Menus Offered
Chef’s
80
Percentage of restaurants (%)
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Creative
Piedmontese
Regional
Type of Cuisine
International
Mediterranean
The wine cellar
The labels
The cellars are always well stocked and the
wine lists include an average of 600 labels. It
isn’t unusual to find wine lists dedicated to a
specific type (for example, exclusively Barolo
or Barbaresco). In some cases, a list of
liquors and aged spirits is also offered –
labels with vintages dating back to the early
1900s.
40
35
The menu
What kind of menu?
Naturally, there is an A la Carte Menu,
almost always alongside a Tasting Menu
(offered by over 90% of the restaurants),
intended as an invitation to sample a
guided “itinerary” of dishes recommended
by the chef.
Percentage of restaurants (%)
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
200
400
600
800
1000
Number of Labels
10

How many and what kind of customers?
Frequentation of Piedmont’s best restaurants
October through December is the preferred period for dining out.
45
Customers in January-March
45
Customers in April-June
40
40
35
35
30
30
Percentage of restaurants (%)
25
20
15
10
5
Percentage of restaurants (%)
25
20
15
10
5
0
Less than 50%
From 50 to 65%
From 65 to 80%
Occupation rates
From 80 to 95%
Full up
0
Less than 50%
From 50 to 65%
From 65 to 80%
Occupation rates
From 80 to 95%
Full up
Customers in July-September
Customers in October-December
45
45
40
40
35
35
30
30
Percentage of restaurants (%)
25
20
15
10
Percentage of restaurants (%)
25
20
15
10
5
5
0
Less than 50%
From 50 to 65%
From 65 to 80%
From 80 to 95%
Occupation rates
Full up
0
Less than 50%
From 50 to 65%
From 65 to 80%
From 80 to 95%
Occupation rates
Full up
Despite a decrease in customers with respect to the previous year, in the last trimester,
some 70% of restaurants recorded occupation rates ranging from 80% to “full up.”
11

Where are they from?
Demand from the Swiss surpasses that of the Germans
While at the beginning of the year, the percentage of foreigners does not exceed 16%,
between April and September they represent approximately 25% of all customers. The
remaining percentage is 22% composed of customers from other Italian regions.
During the October-December trimester, 30% of the clientele in the best restaurants is
foreign.
Provenance of customers
October-December
Provenance of foreign customers
October-December
20,0%
29,71%
7,0%
47,52%
40,0%
22,77%
30,0%
3,0%
Piedmont
Other Italian Regions
Abroad
Germany
France
Other Nations
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Analysing the foreign market alone, the Swiss are the chief customers at 40%, while the
Germans comprise 30%, followed by the French and English.
We would like to thank all the chefs who contributed to
creating this guide, as well as the editors of the cited
restaurant guides for having provided their publications
in electronic format.
12

The Chefs

Riccardo Aiachini
La Fermata Via Vochieri, 120 - Alessandria
Tel. 0131.251.350
e-mail: info@lafermata-al.it
www.lafermata-al.it
Closed Saturdays at lunch and Sundays
restaurants, subsequently
spending three years at the San
Domenico in Imola; since 1987,
he is the satisfied owner and
renowned chef of La Fermata.
What he says about himself
“I’m 42 years-old and have been
working in the restaurant
business for 25. What can I say?
It’s a lifelong passion.”
Specialities
Cipolla cotta al sale ripiena di
cipolla.
The Chef
Riccardo Aiachini.
Born in Castellazzo Bormida (AL),
on 20 December 1962.
Riccardo Aiachini began with various
intense experiences in numerous
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional, Mediterranean,
and creative cuisine. Sophisticated and
elegant space. Two rooms; seats 35. A la
Carte, Tasting, and “From Our Tradition”
Menu. Wine list with wines from around
the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 500 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Alessandria: the church of Santa Maria di
Castello stands out with its belfry and cloister
erected in the 12th century in the old Rovereto
district, which was the original nucleus of
Alessandria. Palazzo Guasco, the Cathedral,
the parish of Sant’Alessandro, the church of
Santa Maria del Carmine. Noteworthy for
those with a keen interest in modern art is the
polychrome mural mosaic by Gino Severini on
the façade of the Palazzo delle Poste on the
Piazza Libertà, and the architectonic works
by Ignazio Gardella (one of the principal
representatives of Italian Rationalism).
14

Angelo Antonio Angiulli
Angiulli Via Cerventi, 1 - Candelo (BI)
Tel. 015.253.89.98
Closed Mondays
The Chef
Angelo Antonio Angiulli.
Born in Gravina di Puglia (BA),
on 24 January 1947.
A great chef, originally from Apulia, now
successfully rooted in Piedmont, who has
had intense experiences in many European
countries: first at the five-star City Hotel in
Zurich, as demi-chef de rang; then in
Liguria, and in Brussels in a highlyfrequented
restaurant whose regulars
included Prince Baldovino and his consort
Paola of Liege. After several seasons in
Italy, he finally settled in Biellese with the
opening of “his” restaurant Angiulli, which
was awarded a star by Michelin in 1994.
What he says about himself
“My cooking is very personal, based on
memories of my early youth and on
Mediterranean culture, which I enrich with
observations and inferences I’ve made
about the cooking in countries I’ve visited.
In 1992, I interned with George Blanc at
Vonnaz. Today, I’m one of the one hundred
A STROLL THROUGH
Candelo: the Ricetti (Shelters) were fortified
complexes originally built as storehouses for
food, but which could be transformed into
defensive strongholds. The Ricetto of Candelo
was constructed prior to 1374 and is very
well-preserved.
At a short distance from Candelo lies an
“island” of Italian prairie, the Riserva
Naturale delle Baragge (Baragge Nature
Reserve), an absolutely unique environment
in which nature reigns supreme.
celebrity chefs who advertise Riso Gallo
rice, and I edit a column about gastronomic
customs in a local biweekly, L’Eco di Biella.
I’ve participated in various events, of
which I’m particularly fond of mentioning
“Tre stelle per tre bicchieri,” organised by
the Cantine Contratto in Canelli. Cooking?
A passion that absorbs my whole life.”
Specialities
Passata di cicerchie con crostacei.
The Restaurant
Mediterranean and Middle European
cuisine. Rustic, elegant, and atmospheric
space. A curiosity: precious Persian carpets
lie beneath all the tables. One room; seats 20.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu, even for
seafood. Dessert menu with accompanying
wines by the glass. Wine list with wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 250 labels.
Menu of “antique”
spirits with labels
from
1900-1920.
15

Giuseppina Bagliardi
Gener Neuv Lungo Tanaro dei Pescatori, 4 - Asti
Tel. 0141.557.270
e-mail: generneuv@atlink.it
www.generneuv.it
Open seven days a week
as she accepts that occasional mistakes are
inevitable. She often tries out new recipes
following her intuition, and then awaits
the customers’ judgement. I occasionally
find myself reining in her creations a bit,
but everyone tells me to give her leeway.”
Specialities
Finanziera.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional cuisine. Elegant
rustic space. Two rooms; seats 60. A la
Carte and Tasting Menu. Wine list with
regional, national, Austrian, Californian,
French, and Chilean wines; 520 labels.
The Chef
Giuseppina Bagliardi.
Born in Mombaruzzo (AT), on 15 July
1942. An excellent chef who describes
herself as self-taught. As often happens,
talent, diligence, and passion have come
together to produce incomparable results.
What she says about herself
A naturally private person, Giuseppina
Bagliardi prefers to let her husband speak
on her behalf: “When we opened the
restaurant, Giuseppina was a housewife,
but with courage we threw ourselves into
this adventure. Our friends didn’t know
whether to admire us or eye us with
suspicion. Giuseppina, without having
attended any particular schools or courses
held by chefs, read and learned the recipes
from books and then looked for ideas
based on what other restaurants were
offering. It seemed like a daring venture,
but it went well. When she cooks, she has
a great deal of confidence in herself, even
A STROLL THROUGH
Asti: the cathedral dedicated to Maria Assunta
(Our Lady of the Assumption), one of
Piedmont’s most important 14th-century
Gothic churches, modified in the 15th, 17th,
and 18th centuries. The Palio di Asti takes place
on the third weekend of September each year.
16

Maria Barale
Al Rododendro Reg. San Giacomo, 73
Boves (CN)
Tel. 0171.380.372
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
The Chef
Maria Barale.
Born in Cuneo, on 5 January 1950.
Al Rododendro of Boves opened its doors
in 1973. At first, Mary’s husband, Walter
Del Marco, presided over the stove, while
she looked after the customers. Then
fortune intervened in the form of shyness:
A naturally private person, Mary
convinced her husband to exchange places
with her; and it was precisely then that Al
Rododendro began its ongoing ascent.
A STROLL THROUGH
Cuneo: the porticoes of the stately buildings
on Via Roma and Corso Nizza are
characteristic of the city. City life takes place
along this axis with its commercial activities,
professional offices, and cafés. The dome of
1198 arose along with the foundations of the
city itself. The recently restored Torre Civica
(City Tower) dates back to 1317. From atop
the tower, one can admire the spectacular
panorama of the Alpine arc.
What she says about herself
“My cooking is partly under the influence
of nearby France, but it gets very creative
due to the encounter between local
traditions and those of the other Italian
regions.
What’s more, in my profession, nothing is
ever static, which is why I continue to take
classes, participating in refresher courses
with the most famous chefs every year.
It’s the best way to always keep in step with
the latest cooking techniques.”
Specialities
Ravioli di gallina.
The Restaurant
International and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room; seats 25.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional and national wines;
250 labels.
17

Fabio Barbaglini
Caffé Groppi Via Mameli, 20 - Trecate (NO)
Tel. 0321.711.54
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
The Chef
Fabio Barbaglini.
Born in Desio (MI) on 8 September 1974.
Very young and just as skilful, Fabio
Barbaglini, after graduating from hotel
school, went abroad with the intention of
building a solid and versatile career: he
initially went to Saint Moritz, then to
Austria and Monte-Carlo; upon his return
to Italy, he consolidated his experience at
the Antica Osteria del Ponte in Cassinetta
di Lugagnano.
What he says about himself
“You’ll find very little about my cuisine
that’s traditional – quite the contrary. But
everything is prepared with passion and
attention to the ingredients.”
Specialities
All dishes on the Chef’s Menu.
The Restaurant
Creative cuisine. Atmospheric space with a
view. One room; seats 25.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with national wines; 350 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs of Trecate: Parco Naturale Valle
del Ticino (Ticino Valley Natural Park), with
equipped paths and cycling trails. Guided
walking and cycling tours are available.
At Galliate: the Castello Visconteo Sforzesco
(Visconti-Sforzesco Castle), one of the most
important monuments in the Novara area due
to its architectonic grandeur and the
uniformity of its impact.
18

Pierangelo Bertinotti
Pinocchio Via Matteotti, 147 - Borgomanero (NO)
Tel. 0322.822.73
e-mail: bertinotti@ristorantepinocchio.it
www.ristorantepinocchio.it
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays at lunch
The Chef
Pierangelo Bertinotti.
Born in Cureggio (NO), on 6 July 1938.
A master chef of exceptional experience,
who boasts a truly extraordinary curriculum
vitae: his cooking has reached as far as
Hong Kong, Dubai, New York, Bahrain, and
Cairo; he also made several stops in Europe,
passing through London and Ireland. In
1962, he “came to a stop,” returning to
Piedmont with the opening of the Pinocchio.
What he says about himself
“My exploration of the tastes and flavours
of our country’s fine cuisine can be
summed up by my family’s characteristic
simplicity and straightforwardness.
And you’ll find all of us here at the Pinocchio
– my wife Luisa, my children Paola
(sommelier) and Andrea, and my daughterin-law
Laura – every day, sharing in the
commitment to revisiting, with a pinch of
modernity and a touch of class, dishes that
make eating well a sign of culture.”
Specialities
Uovo in piedi con mandorle e tartufo
d’Alba in bagna caoda.
The Restaurant
Typical Piedmontese and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space, with garden
and terrace. Three rooms; seats 36 plus 170
by reservation. A la Carte and Tasting Menu
featuring the Pinocchio’s renowned dishes,
Children’s Menu and Lunch Menu for
business lunches. Wine list with regional,
national, and international wines from around
the world, superlative vintages and formats;
and liquor menu, for a total of 700 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Borgomanero: a walk in the ancient village
with its four districts; the Museo “Come
eravamo” (“The Way We Were” Museum) in
the former Palazzo Bono on Piazzale Chiesa.
In the environs: Orta San Giulio with its
suburbs among elegant 17th and 18thcentury
residences whose arcades open onto
gardens that fall away into the lake.
19

Marco Boschiazzo
Belvedere Piazza Castello, 5 - La Morra (CN)
Tel. 0173.501.90
e-mail: info@belvederelamorra.it
www.belvederelamorra.it
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
The Chef
Marco Boschiazzo.
Born in Turin, on 13 August 1969.
A graduate of the hotel school in Barolo,
he gained experience in typical
Piedmontese restaurants; then, in 1985,
he arrived as assistant cook at the
Belvedere, whose kitchen he now runs.
What he says about himself
“I’m following and continuing the
restaurant’s traditions, offering dishes
based on classic regional recipes; my
cooking combines careful preparation and
high-quality ingredients.”
A STROLL THROUGH
La Morra: the town is known as the "Belvedere
delle Langhe" ("The Lookout of the Langhe")
because of its spectacular location atop a hill in
the heart of the Barolo area. In the old quarter,
the baroque church of San Martino and the
confraternity of San Rocco. In the hamlet of
Annunziata, the Museo Ratti sull’enologia
(Ratti Museum of Oenology), with its wealth of
historical tools and documents.
Specialities
Agnolotti del plin ai tre arrosti. The desserts.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional cuisine. Historical
space. Four rooms; seats 120. A la Carte
and Tasting Menu. Wine list with regional,
national, and international wines from
around the world, superlative vintages
and formats; 750 labels.
20

Piercarlo Bussetti
Locanda Mongreno
Strada comunale Mongreno, 50 - Torino
Tel. 011.898.04.17
e-mail: pikuz@libero.it
Closed Mondays
The Chef
Piercarlo Bussetti.
Born in Chivasso (TO),
on 5 January 1968.
Piercarlo Bussetti travelled many
kilometres to learn art of cooking: his
desire for knowledge took him as far away
as the United States and Japan, in addition
to France, Spain, and many Italian cities.
What he says about himself
“All my experiences have come together in
an experimental cuisine that, while it also
draws on this region, covers a broad
spectrum. It’s represented by a concrete
creativity and innovation that reflects my
personal style.”
Specialities
“Inversione del vitello tonnato”, sushi in
tre versioni, scamone di sanato dorato,
torcione di foie gras con salsa all’arabica
e panpepato, goccia al cioccolato con
crema al caffè.
A STROLL THROUGH
Turin: Basilica of Superga. This building
designed by Filippo Juvarra overlooks Turin
from the hilltop of Superga. Once the symbol of
the power of the Savoy, it is now a destination
for pilgrims and young couples who come to
admire the view (the basilica can be reached
via the trolley inaugurated in 1934).
The Restaurant
Creative and experimental cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 35.
Various Tasting Menus, from which one
may choose individual dishes.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
approximately 400 labels.
21

Massimo Camia
Locanda nel Borgo Antico
Piazza Municipio, 2 - Barolo (CN)
Tel. 0173.563.55
Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays all day;
closed only Wednesdays from October to November
What he says about himself
“This has been my profession since 1975
(I began at the age of 15), and over time
I’ve tried to enrich my store of experiences
as much as possible: nine years of hotel
seasons, followed by three years in
Muscatel, four in Mondovì with my first
restaurant, and finally Barolo, where I’ve
been since 1990.
In 2001, I was awarded a Michelin star.”
Specialities
Risotto al petto di piccione and tortino di
nocciole.
The Chef
Massimo Camia.
Born in Dogliani (CN),
on 12 September 1960.
Prior to the adventure of the Locanda del
Borgo Antico, Massimo Camia spent many
years on the move around Italy, learning
and perfecting his skills as a chef.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 40. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu, as well as a separate Small
Menu. Wine list with regional, national,
and international wines from around the
world, superlative vintages
and formats; a Menu dedicated to Barolo
wines; 430 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Barolo: the Castello di Barolo (Barolo Castle) is an ancient building that was significantly altered in the
19th century. It houses the Museo Etnografico (Ethnographic Museum), historical apartments furnished
with antique pieces, the heraldry room, the library, and the relics of Silvio Pellico. Also located here is the
Enoteca Regionale del Barolo, a prestigious showcase for local wine production. In the environs: in the
hamlet of Roncaglia di Bene Vagienna is the Riserva Naturale Augusta Bagiennorum (Augusta
Bagiennorum Nature Reserve). The area, located in a scenic position, is recognised as a site of natural and
landscape interest, and sections of it are subject to archaeological preservation. In fact, one can visit the
excavations of the ancient Roman city, which includes the ruins of a theatre, temple, and aqueduct.
22

Bruna Cane
I Caffi Reg. Caffi, 284 - Cassinasco (AT)
Tel. 0141.826.900
e-mail: ristorante@icaffi.it
www.icaffi.it
Closed Wednesdays and Sunday evenings
The Chef
Bruna Cane.
Born in Cossano Belbo(CN),
on 16 May 1957.
Bruna Cane is forty-seven years-old, and
has spent the majority of the past twentyseven
in the kitchen – the kitchen of I
Caffi, to be precise.
What she says about herself
“I offer creatively re-elaborated regional
cuisine. In autumn, I prefer game, white
Alba truffles and mushrooms; in spring, I
pay more attention to aromatic herbs; in
summer, vegetables.
Our bread, breadsticks, pasta, and small
pastries are all artisanally produced.”
Specialities
Tortino al fondente con gelato alla lavanda.
The Restaurant
Creative cuisine. Rustic-elegant space.
Three rooms; seats 35.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional and
national wines; 600/700
labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Cassinasco: the Santuario dei Caffi (Caffi
Sanctuary), an unusual white structure with a
tall central cupola that holds some one-hundred
ex-votos from the 19th century through the
present. The church, situated on the road that
runs along the ridge between Cassinasco and
Loazzolo, dates back to the early 20th century,
and stands on the site of an ancient votive post
that was subsequently knocked down. Climbing
to the top, the view spans the entire range of the
Alps, with the Monte Viso isolated in the
background as a point of reference.
23

Antonino Cannavacciuolo
Villa Crespi Via G. Fava, 18 - Orta S. Giulio (NO)
Tel. 0322.911.902
e-mail: cinzia.villacrespi@libero.it
Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays at lunch
the Primatesta family. In 1998, he went
“home,” going to Capri to the kitchens of
the prestigious Hotel Quisisana. Finally, in
1999, he found himself back on the lake to
personally manage the Villa Crespi together
with Cinzia Primatesta.
What he says about himself
The chef presents a creative cuisine –
Mediterranean with a “fusion” of products
from Piedmont and the lake.
The Chef
Antonino Cannavacciuolo.
Born in Vico Equense (NA) on 16 April
1975. Considered one of Italy’s top chefs,
Tony Cannavacciuolo has a truly interesting
curriculum vitae: When he was just 18
years-old, he left the peninsula of Sorrento
to gain experience in France at the
Auberge de l’Île and with
Westermann. Back in Italy, in
1995, he worked the peak
season in the Hotel San
Rocco, on Lake Orta. At
the end of the summer,
he found himself
working in the
hotel restaurant
L’Approdo,
owned by
Specialities
Quaglia farcita al fois gras con le sue uova
e salsa ai frutti di bosco.
The Restaurant
Mediterranean and creative cuisine.
Historical space, sophisticated and
elegant, with a view. Three rooms; seats 35
for A la Carte meal. A la Carte, Tasting,
and “Chef’s Recommendations” Menu.
Wine list with national and international
wines from around the world, superlative
vintages and formats; 1,000 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Orta San Giulio: a medieval village on the
shores of Lake Orta with many 17th/18thcentury
residences and a wealth of medieval
vistas. Worth noting is the Palazzo De Fortis
Penotti with its neoclassic façade, a true
architectonic gem, and the late-Renaissance
Palazzo Gemelli. On the island of San Giulio
stands the Basilica of San Giulio, erected above
a pre-existing church that, according to
tradition, was the hundredth and last built by
the Saint in the 14th century, at the end of his
evangelistic pilgrimage. Since 1590, twenty
chapels exist immersed in the park of the Sacro
Monte di Orta (Sacred Mountain of Orta).
24

Fausto Carrara
Operti 1772 da Fausto
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 103 -Cherasco (CN)
Tel. 0172.487.048
www.operti1772.it
Closed Tuesdays
The Chef
Fausto Carrara.
Born in Mondovì (CN),
on 18 December 1969.
Active in the restaurant – which he owns –
since 11 September 2000, he gained his
experience in numerous prestigious
restaurants in Italy, France, and Germany.
The results of his formation are an
exquisite pleasure for the palate – for
anyone who wishes to taste them.
What he says about himself
“I like to think that I can give anyone
interested the possibility of experiencing
the same pleasure in the art of the stove
that it gives me – so I teach cooking and
the history of cooking, holding classes in
my restaurant, and collaborating with the
universities of Turin and Zurich.
There’s something else I’m particularly
fond of: truffles, an ingredient to which
I’ve dedicated years of research and
A STROLL THROUGH
Cherasco: the city has retained its castrum
romanum structure, a grid layout with two
large streets that intersect perpendicularly,
dividing the city into four districts. It was
once surrounded by walls approximately one
mile long, which were then replaced by
tree-lined avenues in the 18th century.
The Palazzo Municipale (Town Hall) and the
Torre Civica (City Tower) are two examples
of the deep-rooted urban culture.
On Viala Salmatoris stands the manor house
built by Luchino Visconti in 1348.
The Romanesque-style church of San Pietro
is the city’s oldest monument.
experimentation.”
Specialities
Terrina di faraona e lumache, raviolini del
plin ai ferricorti, stinco di vitello al
cioccolato “chuao”, torta leggera di
nocciole senza burro e farina.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional,
Mediterranean, and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space. One room;
seats 25. A la Carte, Tasting, “Chef’s
Recommendations,” and “Snail” Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and
international wines from around the world,
superlative vintages and formats; 500 labels.
25

Pierluigi Consonni
Vintage 1997 Piazza Solferino, 164 - Torino
Tel. 011.535.948
e-mail: info@vintage1997.com
www.vintage1997.com
Closed Saturdays at lunch and Sundays
Specialities
Code di scampi e coniglio con crema di
scalogno, vitello tonnato del Vintage,
quadrati di gallina e coniglio con il loro
sugo d’arrosto, tortino di pere con gelato
alla cannella.
The Chef
Pierluigi Consonni.
Born in Massa, on 29 October 1969.
A talented, enthusiastic, and exacting chef.
One of his most important experiences was
at the restaurant La Prima Smarrita in
Turin, where he refined his sensibility and
technique.
What he says about himself
“I’ve liked the idea of working in a kitchen
ever since I was young; this inclination
subsequently turned into a real and true
passion, to the point of eclipsing the effort,
commitment, and sacrifice that this
profession requires – the gratification you
feel when you prepare a new dishes
outweighs any obstacle. When I cook, I’m
not concerned so much with amazing my
customers as with creating something that
will be, for them, a complete pleasure:
from the presentation (attractive to look
at), to the aroma (agreeable to smell), to
the flavour (a pleasure to taste).”
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese and
Mediterranean cuisine. Sophisticated and
elegant space. Three rooms; seats 60.
A la Carte, Tasting, and “Chef’s
Recommendations” Menu. Wine list with
regional, national, and international wines
from around the world, superlative vintages
and formats; approximately 600 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Turin: Piazza Solferino, surrounded by 19thcentury
buildings. Since January 2004, it has
been hosting “Atrium Torino,” a space
dedicated to the city’s communications,
transformations, and the Olympic events.
From Via Pietro Micca to Piazza Castello with
Palazzo Madama, Palazzo Reale, and the
Teatro Regio (Royal Theatre).
Beneath the arcades of Piazza Castello,
several of the city’s historical cafés.
26

Maurizio Cornero
La Fioraia Via Mondo, 26
Castello di Annone (AT)
Tel. 0141.40.11.06
Closed Mondays
The Chef
Maurizio Cornero.
Born in Castello di Annone (AT),
on 3 August 1976.
After his accountancy studies, he began
working in the family restaurant,
supervising the management of the dining
room; only subsequently did he find his
way into the kitchen, where he discovered
his propensity for the profession to which
he has dedicated himself with diligence
and passion ever since – as is apparent
from the results.
What he says about himself
“I can say that I was born into the
profession: in fact, I learned how to cook
under the supervision and guidance of my
mother, Ornella Borgo.”
Specialities
Filetto di maialino fasciato di lardo di
Arnaud in salsa Voronoff.
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room; seats 50.
A la Carte, Tasting, and “Chef’s
Recommendations” Menu. Wine list with
regional and international wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats;
225 labels.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: the Parco Naturale di
Rocchetta Tanaro (Rocchetta Tanaro
Natural Park). Spans 122 hectares in a
hilly area across an uninterrupted
stretch of beech, oak, chestnut, and
English oak trees. Noteworthy are the
equestrian trails, educational nature
paths, and cycling trail winding along
the paved road that connects the
communities of the area.
27

Renato Dominici
La Carmagnole
Via Chiffi, 31 - Carmagnola (TO)
Tel. 011.971.26.73
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
Specialities
Every dish at La Carmagnole is always
exclusive: in fact, each customer’s menu is
remembered to ensure that already tasted
dishes are not offered again – unless
otherwise requested, of course.
The Chef
Renato Dominici.
Born in Carmagnola (TO),
on 25 November 1925.
A great historical chef shows that he
combines his work in the kitchen with a
tangible commitment to spreading his
culture and the gastronomic arts.
What he says about himself
“Cooking is more than a job for me,
it’s a passion that involves my entire life: I
am a close collaborator of Slow Food,
appointed professor at the Università di
Scienze Gastronomiche in Pollenzo, and a
consultant for numerous hotel schools.
Furthermore, thanks to my role as town
councillor in the Commune of
Carmagnola, I can dedicate all the
knowledge I’ve gained over the years to
increasing the value of and promoting our
agro-industrial products and the region.”
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space on the
first floor of a late 18th-century building.
Four rooms; seats 32.
Tasting Menu.
Wine list with national and international
wines from around the world; suggested
wines to accompany the dishes; 600 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Carmagnola: on Piazza Agostino, the mansion
built circa 1200 that now serves as the town
hall, the collegiate church dedicated to San
Pietro and San Paolo and dating back to 1492.
Worth noting is the Ecomuseo della Canapa
(Hemp Eco-Museum), which displays antique
equipment and shows the various processing
stages.
28

Walter Eynard
Flipot Corso Gramsci, 17 - Torre Pellice (TO)
Tel. 0121.91.236
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
The Chef
Walter Eynard.
Born in Torre Pellice (TO),
on 13 February 1958.
In developing his skills, the local expert
chef Walter Eynard drew inspiration and
sensibility from Italian and French
gastronomic culture to create his own
personal and high-level cuisine.
Specialities
“The dish I’m preparing for you today”.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative cuisine.
A la Carte and 2 Tasting Menus.
Wine list with regional and international
wines from around the world, superlative
vintages and formats; 1,020 labels.
What he says about himself
“I was born and raised in the Valdese
valleys, the value of whose local
ingredients my wife Gisella and I try to
preserve and express.”
A STROLL THROUGH
Torre Pellice: the “F. Scroppo” gallery of
contemporary art; the Museo Storico Valdese
(Valdese Historical Museum), which documents
the origins, history, customs, and traditions of
the Valdese people and the valleys they settled.
29

Walter Ferretto
Pisterna Via Scatilazzi - Acqui Terme (AL)
Tel. 0144.325.114
e-mail: info@pisterna.it
www.pisterna.it
Closed Sunday evenings
and Mondays; open only evenings all other days
The Chef
Walter Ferretto.
Born in Isola d’Asti(AT), on 5 April 1960.
Walter Ferretto began his career as a chef
at a very young age, helping his mother in
the family restaurant Il Cascinalenuovo,
where his remarkable talent quickly
became apparent. In search of new
influences, he began travelling to gain
experience. He spent time in numerous
French restaurants (all with 2/3 Michelin
stars), and in two prestigious restaurants
in the United States. He also made several
stops in Italy before opening the Pisterna
with his brother Robert.
Il Cascinalenuovo
S.S. Asti-Alba, 15 - Isola d’Asti (AT)
Tel. 0141.958.166
e-mail: info@ilcascinalenuovo.it
www.ilcascinalenuovo.it
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
What he says about himself
“My cooking fuses tradition and
innovation: The menu combines
Piedmont’s great gastronomy – some of
whose virtually obsolete historical dishes I
also offer, such as 17th-century sausage
and rum risotto – with flavours and
aromas from every corner of the world.”
Specialities
Millefoglie di lingua di vitello e foie gras
con gelatina al porto. Ravioli ripieni di
riso, cavolo e tartufo nero.
The Restaurant
Pisterna
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Historical space. Three rooms;
seats 60. A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
350 labels.
Il Cascinale Nuovo
Characteristic Piedmontese and creative
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 70. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu, seasonal Truffle Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
500 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Acqui Terme: the dome, castle and its botanical
garden, and the Piazza della Bollente. Isola d’Asti:
the Chiesa dell'Immacolata Concezione di
Mogovone (Church of the Immaculate Conception
of Mogovone), founded circa 1629.
30

Osvaldo Forlino
La Gallina Frazione Monterotondo, 56 - Gavi (AL)
Tel. 0143.685.132
e-mail: info@la-gallina.it
www.la-gallina.it
Closed Mondays
The Chef
Osvaldo Forlino.
Born in Montacuto (AL),
on 18 September 1953.
His own boss since 1980, first with the
restaurant Forlino and now with La
Gallina, this chef spent time at Da Guido
in Costigliole and at the Sadler in Milan.
What he says about himself
“I’ve been breathing in the aromas and
flavours of cooking since I was born, my
dad, mum and grandmother all being
involved in the activity. Practically – based
on a quick calculation – I’ve been working
in the restaurant business for 50 years.”
Specialities
Purè di patate di montagna con baccalà e
carciofi saltati.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
Mediterranean cuisine.
Atmospheric space with a view.
Four rooms; seats 120.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional and international
wines from around the world,
superlative vintages and formats;
350 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Gavi: the fortress, erected at the end
of the 17th century. In the environs:
The archaeological area of Libarna,
an ancient Roman city near Serravalle
Scrivia; the Riserva Naturale del
Torrente Orba (Orba Stream Nature
Reserve) offers a pleasant and
relaxing itinerary suitable for all.
31

Maurilio Garola
La Ciau del Tornavento
Piazza Baracco, 7 - Treiso (CN)
Tel. 0173.638.333
Closed Wednesdays
and Thursdays at lunch
The Chef
Maurilio Garola.
Born in Avigliana (TO), on 29 May 1958.
Maurilio Garola learned and refined his
culinary skills in numerous kitchens,
moving from Piedmont to Switzerland over
the years: from La Betulla in Trana, to La
Vecchia Lanterna and La Gastronomia
Castagno in Turin, to the Val Sangone in
Giaveno, and the Astor on the Lido Estensi,
before finally “coming to a stop” in his own
restaurant, La Ciau del Tornavento.
What he says about himself
“My life amidst the stoves consists of reelaborating
recipes of old flavours, not
least because I come from a family of
A STROLL THROUGH
Treiso: on the central piazza, one can admire
the superb and imposing Baroque-style
parish church. The interior is also
magnificent with its presbytery, paintings
over the secondary altars, and other frescoes.
In the environs: the city of Alba and the
Castello di Roddi (Roddi Castle).
peasant origin; I try to lighten the dishes
without trivialising them, presenting
tradition from an innovative perspective,
trying to make the food a pleasure for the
palate that simultaneously satisfies the
mind and heart.”
Specialities
Agnolotti del plin di seirass al serpillo cotti
nel fieno maggiengo.
The Restaurant
Typical Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine. Atmospheric space
with a view. One room; seats 60.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu,
Traditional Menu. Wine list
with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages
and formats; Magnum
and Poppi Magnum;
1,000 labels.
32

Cesare Giaccone
Ristorante dei Cacciatori
Via San Bernardo, 9 Albaretto della Torre (CN)
Tel. 0173.520.141
Tuesdays and Thursdays at lunch
The Chef
Cesare Giaccone.
Born in Lequio Berria (CN), on 22
November 1946.
Cesare Giaccone began his career as a chef
in the Valle d’Aosta, subsequently moving
to the Ligurian Coast and spending several
seasons in Germany. When, in 1968, he
decided to open the Ristorante dei
Cacciatori, he was already well-prepared
to offer his clientele delicious cooking.
What he says about himself
“I took my first steps at the stove under the
watchful eyes of my mum Maria, who already
owned the restaurant. My character is
capricious and unpredictable – just like my
cooking, which I invented myself.”
Specialities
A dish dedicated to a dear friend from
across the Alps: porcini e pesche alla
Willsberger.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Elegant family restaurant.
Two rooms; seats 35. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu.Wine list with national
wines; 150 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs of Albaretto: the Castello di
Serralunga d’Alba (Serralunga d’Alba Castle)
dating back to 1340; the Castello di Borgomale
(Borgomale Castle), built beginning in 1429 on
a former fortification dating back to the 18th
century, is a massive structure that towers
above the village together with the church.
33

Marta Grassi
Tantris Via Pier Lombardo, 35 - Novara
Tel. 0321.469.156
e-mail: tantris.ristorante@starnova.it
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
What she says about herself
“Mine is a contemporary cuisine that
revisits and creatively modifies traditional
cooking. It’s characterised by ongoing
experimentation and absolute balance,
which I attain through the considered use
of ingredients. Every dish – always based
on ingredients such as fresh meat or fish of
only the highest quality – is the fruit of a
painstaking process that seeks a harmonious
blending of flavours, aromas, and colours.”
Specialities
Toast di pere e fegato grasso d’oca.
The Restaurant
Mediterranean and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room; seats 25.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and
international wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
530 labels.
The Chef
Marta Grassi.
Born in Novara, on 21 August 1955.
Marta Grassi’s career path is an unusual
one. It’s the story of a passion that drove
her to abandon one profession – teaching –
to dedicate herself to another – cooking –
full-time. With excellent results. After brief
periods of training in important kitchens,
she opened the restaurant Tantris. She then
perfected her innate talent with periods of
training at Paracucchi, La Locanda
dell’Angelo, Gualtiero Marchesi, and
Bonvesin della Riva.
A STROLL THROUGH
Novara: the cupola of San Gaudenzio and the
chapel of Santa Maria Assunta (Our Lady of
the Assumption), both the work of A.
Antonelli. In the environs: in the hamlet of
Badia di Dulzago, the church of San Giulio,
founded in the early decades of the 12th
century. At San Nazzaro Sesia: the abbey of
the same name, founded in 1040 and almost
completely rebuilt in the 15th century.
Preserved within the church and cloister are a
series of 15th century frescoes representing
the life of San Benedetto.
34

Patrizia Grossi
La Torre Via D. Garoglio, 3 - Casale Monferrato (AL)
Tel. 0142.702.95
e-mail: info@ristorante-latorre.it
www.ristorante-latorre.it
Closed Tuesday evenings and Wednesdays
The Chef
Patrizia Grossi.
Born in Casale Monferrato (AL),
on 24 January 1959.
Patrizia Grossi’s decision was a radical
one: She abandoned her university studies
to give expression to a creativity that had
hitherto remained exclusively internal. She
defines herself as self-taught, but her
natural talent quickly became apparent in
the high quality of her cooking.
A STROLL THROUGH
Casale Monferrato: the Romanesque-style
dome. The convent of San Marco and San
Bartolomeo, two medieval monasteries
unified in the 15th century.
A speciality of Casale: Krumiri biscotti.
In the environs: Valenza, a prestigious centre
of the art of goldsmithing.
What she says about herself
“In my dedication to cooking, I pay a great
deal of attention to exploring the culinary
culture of the region. Perhaps that’s why I
was invited to participate in the promotion
of Piedmontese Cuisine in Salt Lake City, at
the European Parliament in Brussels, and
at the Italian Embassy in Lisbon.”
space.
Two rooms plus banquet hall, seats 60/80.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu, “Monferrato-
Style Menu.”
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and
formats; 250 labels.
Specialities
Risotto al peperone rosso e gorgonzola.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant
35

Vera Lo Nardo
La Luna nel Pozzo Piazza Italia, 23 - Neive (CN)
Tel. 0173.670.98
e-mail: ristorante@lalunanelpozzo.it
www.lalunanelpozzo-neive.it
Closed Tuesday evenings and Wednesdays
The Chef
Vera Lo Nardo.
Born in Montegrosso
d’Asti (AT), on 14
September 1947.
Self-taught, a degree in
biology, 20 years of
teaching at the “A.
Monti” teacher training
college in Turin;
then, at last, with the
opening of La Luna nel
Pozzo together with
her husband, the passion
became profession,
and the dream
became reality – an important reality in the
scene of high-level Italian gastronomy.
What she says about herself
“My cooking experience is based on family
traditions, from which I acquired the
fundamental concepts of eating well,
authentically, naturally. I then fine-tuned
my technique by frequenting great
restaurants in Italy and abroad. I consider
myself very fortunate in that the richness of
the Langhe region allows me to use superb
ingredients – whenever possible, I prefer to
use organically-grown ingredients. We have
superlative cheeses, the products of
enthusiastic dairy farmers, who are not only
rediscovering this tradition, but through
their work are also encouraging young
people to revalue rather than abandon the
region. Our kitchen prepares four different
types of bread every day, thanks to various
kinds of stone-ground flour.”
Specialities
Quaglie disossate farcite di foie gras con
fichi al Porto e cipolle rosse di Tropea.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine.
Elegant and sophisticated space.
One room; seats 25/30.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and international
wines from around the world,
superlative vintages and formats;
500 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Neive: in the upper part lies the ancient village
with its castle, the Baroque churches of San
Pietro and San Paolo, and the confraternity of
San Michele. In the hamlet of Borgonuovo: a
five-storey belfry is all that remains of an
ancient Romanesque church. Several local wine
cellars are open to the public. At Guarene: The
Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, which
hosts exhibitions of contemporary art by artists
from around the world. The Castello di
Guarene (Guarene Castle) is an example of
Piedmontese Baroque architecture.
36

Luisa Marelli Valazza
Al Sorriso Via Roma, 18 - Soriso (NO)
Tel. 0322.983.228
e-mail: sorriso@alsorriso.com
www.alsorriso.com
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
The Chef
Luisa Marelli Valazza.
Born in Soriso (NO),
on 20 December 1950.
With a degree in the humanities,
Signora Luisa initially approached the
restaurant business when she helped
her husband Angelo Valazza run the Al
Sorriso. She began learning to cook on
her own, studying recipes and books –
an effort that was most certainly
accompanied by a generous dose of
talent, as demonstrated by the Grand
Prix dell’Academie Internationale de
Gastronomie and the three Michelin
stars the restaurant has been awarded.
What she says about herself
“I offer dishes tied to the region by
execution, intuition, and the products
used. A lover of walks in the mountains,
my cooking uses many ingredients from
high altitudes: tome from Val d’Ossola,
cheeses from mountain-grazed animals,
and the prosciutto and pancetta from Val
Vigezzo. Of course there are also mountain
herbs, such as thyme, wild sage and
spinach, as well as flowers like violets,
which I use in preparing sorbet.”
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, Mediterranean,
international, and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 45.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and
international wines from around the world,
superlative vintages and formats; 800
labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: on Lake Orta, Orta San Giulio with
its suburbs among elegant 17th/18th-century
residences whose arcades open onto gardens that
fall away into the lake. Piazza Motta, with its
outdoor café tables that seem to jostle for a spot at
the water’s edge. The Palazzo della Comunità
della Riviera (Coastal Community Hall), a
Renaissance structure from 1582.
37

Andrea Marino
Antinè Via Torino, 34/A - Barbaresco (CN)
Tel. 0173.635.294
chiusura settimanale: mercoledì
The Chef
Andrea Marino.
Born in Pinerolo (TO), on 31 May 1972.
A young cook whose passion and tenacity
drove him to travel throughout Europe
(where he stopped in the kitchens of
restaurants and hotels in Italy, France,
England, and Switzerland), which served
as a perfectly legitimate apprenticeship.
What he says about himself
“I opened this restaurant in the heart of
the Barbaresco region 5 years-ago, creating
dishes from the Piedmontese tradition
using top-quality ingredients that intensify
the flavour of every recipe.”
Specialities
Quaglie disossate e arrostite in padella su
germogli di spinaci, fegato grasso d’oca e
moscato passito.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space. One
room; seats 30. A la Carte and Tasting
Menu. Wine list with regional and some
national and foreign wines; 490 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Barbaresco: the “Torre antica” (“Ancient
tower”) around which the urban settlement
developed; in the confraternity of San Donato,
the Enoteca Regionale del Barbaresco, a
prestigious organisation created to support the
area’s wine growing and production.
38

Mariangela Marone
Scoiattolo Via Casa del Ponte, 3/b
Carcoforo (VC)
Tel. 0163.956.12
e-mail: ristorantescoiattolo@libero.it
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
The Chef
Mariangela Marone.
Born in Varallo Sesia (VC),
on 2 July 1966.
Mariangela Marone began cooking
virtually by chance. Or rather, love:
initially, she looked after the customers in
the dining room of the first restaurant
managed by her husband. The satisfaction
of this self-taught chef is great: In just a
few years, she has succeeded in carving
out a place for herself at the forefront of
the high-quality restaurant scene.
What she says about herself
“After our wedding, my husband and I
built the new Scoiattolo. Because of my
passion for cooking, we decided that I’d
work in the kitchen full-time. And so, by
assisting chefs, reading recipes, and above
all by trial-and-error, I learned this
profession.”
Specialities
Coniglio al caffé.
A STROLL THROUGH
Carcoforo: one can still see some examples
of Walser dwellings among the central
stone-paved streets closed to cars.
In the environs: at Varallo Sesia (Vc), Sacro
Monte Nuova Gerusalemme (New Jerusalem
Sacred Mountain).
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese,
regional, and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room; seats 25.
Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional and national
wines; 220 labels.
39

Gianfranco Massolino
Trattoria della Posta
Loc. S. Anna, 87 - Monforte d’Alba (CN)
Tel. 0173.781.20
Closed Thursdays and Fridays at lunch
The Chef
Gianfranco Massolino.
Born in Turin, on 11 September 1965.
The Massolino family has been running
the Trattoria della Posta, which opened in
1875, for four generations now:
Gianfranco, the latest to follow the family
tradition, is now the owner of the
historical family restaurant.
What he says about himself
“I believe that one should refer to
traditional cooking. Though there are
dishes that can be made lighter, the
original recipes ought to be respected. This
has always been my philosophy.”
Specialities
Tajarin al ragù di carne, agnello da latte
al forno con timo e maggiorana.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine. An elegant country
restaurant with outdoor seating in summer.
Three rooms; seats 40. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu, White Truffle Menu and
Mushroom Menu. Wine list with regional
and international wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
wines by the glass and small-format bottles
also available; 650 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Monforte d’Alba: the Piazza dell’Antica
Chiesa is framed by the most important
urban buildings: the Torre Campanaria
(Belltower), the confraternity of Santa
Elisabetta, the oratory of Sant’Agostino, and
the Palazzo dei Marchesi Scarampi. Because
of its amphitheatre-like shape, the piazza is
used as an “auditorium” during events and
music festivals.
In the environs: Barolo with its castle housing
the Enoteca Regionale del Barolo, a
prestigious showcase for local wine
production. One can also visit the Museo
Etnografico (Ethnographic Museum),
historical apartments furnished with antique
pieces, the heraldry room, the library, and the
relics of Silvio Pellico.
40

Massimo Milan
Osteria Cascina dei Fiori
Reg. Porte Cascina dei Fiori - Borgovercelli (VC)
Tel. 0161.328.27
Mondays and Thursdays at lunch
The Chef
Massimo Milan.
Born in Vercelli, on 16 May 1953.
Massimo Milan had three important
experiences – at the Cascina Boule in
Ceretto Lomellina, Paracucchi Locanda
dell’Angelo di Ameglia, and Hotel Milan in
Rosolina – before arriving at his own
restaurant, the Cascina dei Fiori.
What he says about himself
“I offer cooking based on the culinary
traditions of my native region, Piedmont.
Of course I reinvent, lighten, and reshape
it – but I always starting from the
hardiness of the local dishes.”
Specialities
Risotti.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 25. A la Carte Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and
international wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
700 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Borgovercelli: the castle, where Torquato
Tasso stayed in 1578.
The “Settembre Musica” music festival takes
place on the second Sunday of September
each year. Make sure to try the “Bicciolani”
biscotti available during the festivities.
41

Elide Mollo
Il Centro Via Umberto I - Priocca (CN)
Tel. 0173.616.112
Closed Tuesdays
care of the dining room. Theirs is a very
agreeable union.
What she says about herself
“My cooking is Piedmontese in nature, but
revisited by my own personal creations.”
Specialities
Fritto misto alla piemontese.
The Chef
Elide Mollo.
Born in Bra (CN), on 25 August 1959.
An autodidact of standing, Signora Elide,
a shy and private person by nature,
doesn’t talk much about herself. She
manages the restaurant together with her
husband Enrico: She runs the kitchen with
the help of able collaborators; he takes
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese and regional
cuisine. Historical space, sophisticated and
elegant.Four rooms; seats 85/90. A la Carte
Menu and “Chef’s Recommendations.”
Wine list with regional and national wines;
400 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: the Castello di Govone (Govone
Castle), once a medieval fortress and now the
town hall, which belonged to the Savoy from
1792 to 1870. The grand staircase adorned
with reliefs from the gardens of Venaria Reale
is spectacular. Note the singular rooms
embellished with Chinese wallpaper and the
ball room. In Guarene, the castle of the same
name is an example of the Piedmontese
Baroque that reveals the influence of the
architect Filippo Juvarra.
42

Maria Occhetti
La Pergola Piazza San Carlo, 1
Vezza d’Alba (CN)
Tel. 0173.651.78
e-mail: ristlapergola@supereva.it
Closed Tuesdays
The Chef
Maria Occhetti.
Born in Monteu Roero (CN),
on 10 January 1936.
This great chef has a virtually chromosomal
connection to cooking: Maria Occhetti grew
up and has always worked at the Pergola,
the family restaurant opened by her father
Eugenio in 1949 together with his wife
Margherita; a happy fate – and a fortunate
one for high-quality Piedmontese cuisine.
What she says about herself
“I learned the secrets of cooking from my
mum Margherita, subsequently developing
them by following my own personal
creative impulses.”
Specialities
Galletto al Barolo.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room; seats 35.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around
the world, superlative vintages
and formats; 250 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: the city of Alba, “capital of the
Langhe” with its historic centre of medieval
origin and numerous towers.
The Castello di Monticello d’Alba (Monticello
d’Alba Castle), one of the most impressive and
well-preserved structures in the area. Over the
centuries, the fortress has remained unaltered
on the outside, while the inside has been
transformed into an elegant residence.
In Baldissero d’Alba, in the hamlet of Baroli,
one can visit the Osservatorio Ornitologico
(Ornithological Observatory), the first founded
in Italy in the 1970s.
43

Giuseppe Palermino
La Braja Via S. Giovanni Bosco, 11 - Montemagno (AT)
Tel. 0141.653.925
e-mail: braja@tin.it
www.labraja.it
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
other experiences: He is a frequent
collaborator of the cooking school in
Agliano and of the ICIF (Italian Culinary
Institute for Foreigners) in Costigliole.
What he says about himself
“At a certain point in my life, I decided that
I could be doing more: I’m a founding
member of O.R.P.I., a founding member of
and adviser to the Associazione Ristoratori
di Asti, and a founding member of the
Consorzio Operatori Turistici di Asti.”
Specialities
Pansotto all’uovo con ricotta piemontese,
spinaci e tartufo; cosciotto di agnello al forno
con asparagi, patate novelle e cipollotto.
The Chef
Giuseppe Palermino.
Born in Rocchetta S. Antonio (FG),
on 30 January 1946.
Prior to 1975, when he took over La Braja,
which he now runs with his family,
Giuseppe Palermino worked at the
Cambio in Turin and at the
Giardinetto in Grazzano.
However, his expertise
has also resulted
in various
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
Four rooms; seats 60. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu. Wine list with regional,
national, and international wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 315 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Montemagno: one of the most spectacular
municipalities of the Asti area. Twelve
evocative lanes radiate out from the imposing
fortress with its Ghibelline battlement.
At the village gates stands the small church of
Santa Maria della Cava. Near the cemetery
lies a true “Romanesque gem:” the ruins of
the church and tower of San Vittore and San
Corona (11th century), which offer a
magnificent view of the village and
surrounding countryside.
44

Davide Palluda
All’Enoteca Via Roma, 57 - Canale (CN)
Tel. 0173.958.57
e-mail: info@davidepalluda.it
www.davidepalluda.it
Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays at lunch
The Chef
Davide Palluda.
Born in Canale (CN), on 6 February 1971.
His gastronomic culture is the result of studies
(hotel school of Barolo), and work experiences
in Langa (Felicin) and Liguria (Balzi Rossi).
Since 1995, he has been running the
restaurant “All’Enoteca;” in 2000, he was
conferred the “Michelin Star” and named
“Cuoco giovane dell’anno” (“Young Chef of
the Year”) by the Espresso guide.
What he says about himself
“I continually update and reinforce my
gastronomic culture through an in-depth
study of the classic texts on local tradition,
a constant comparison with the most
rigorous interpreters of the cuisine of the
Alba region, and periods of training in the
most innovative Italian and foreign
restaurants. I like to think that this
cumulative preparation is translated into
cooking that is personal and clear in its
intentions, cooking that’s able to convey
something about the region without
thereby remaining imprisoned in the
rhetoric of tradition.”
Specialities
“Fassone” dalla testa ai piedi.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 50. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu. Wine list with regional,
national, and international wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 580 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: at Guarene, the castle of the
same name is an example of the Piedmontese
Baroque that reveals the influence of the
architect Filippo Juvarra. From the Italianstyle
garden with the perspectival play of its
geometric hedges one can enjoy one of the
most evocative views of Monferrato.
In Pralormo, the castle dating back to the
13th century has been significantly altered
over the course of history. Worth noting are
the English gardens, in which symmetry and
axiality give way to winding paths and majestic
trees.
45

Massimo Quaglia Faccio
Al Garamond Via Pomba, 14 - Torino
Tel. 011.812.27.81
e-mail: gardenia1@aliceposta.it
www.algaramond.it
Closed Saturdays at lunch and Sundays
The Chef
Massimo Quaglia Faccio.
Born in Turin, on 19 September 1971.
A young chef with a long international
apprenticeship behind him: After
exploring the cuisine of the great hotels in
Paris and Majorca, he gained important
experience at the Savore Restaurant in
New York and at the Neuv Caval’d Brons
in Turin (from 1994 to 1996).
What he says about himself
“Even though the presentation of my
dishes may seem to prove the contrary, I
am a very private and humble person,
extremely scrupulous in my choice of
ingredients, and above all passionate
about my work. I think a fundamental
part of my formation can be attributed to
the time I spent in France, where more
than anything else, I acquired great respect
for the ingredients and the phases of the
cooking process, in which even seemingly
insignificant steps are sometimes the secret
to the successful preparation of a dish.”
Specialities
Raviolo d’astice, paniscia novarese,
carpaccio di storione con foie gras, trota al
pan brioche e salsa di sidro, bisonte al tea
nero affumicato su burrata, morbido di
mandorle con fichi macerati nello zibibbo,
mousse di liquirizia con cioccolato bianco
al profumo di viola, sformato di cioccolato
caldo con crema al barolo chinato.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional,
creative, and international cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 35. A la Carte, Tasting,
and “Chef’s Recommendations” Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and
international wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
dessert wines; 490 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Turin: Palazzo Cavour (Via Cavour, 8).
One of the best examples of 18th-century
Piedmontese Baroque architecture.
Palazzo Carpano (Via Maria Vittoria, 4) still
has an extraordinary courtyard from which
one can admire the neo-Baroque backdrop.
Mole Antonelliana (the Mole of Antonello)
and the Museo del Cinema (Film Museum).
46

Maurizio Quaranta
Locanda del Pilone
Fraz. Madonna di Como - Alba (CN)
Tel. 0173.366.616
e-mail: info@locandadelpilone.com
www.locandadelpilone.com
Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays at lunch
The Chef
Murizio Quaranta.
Born in Cuneo, on 19 October 1964.
Maurizio Quaranta’s preparation was
international in nature: Prior to opening the
Locanda del Pilone with his wife Sabrina,
he refined and deepened his gastronomic
knowledge in France, Switzerland, England,
and throughout Italy.
What he says about himself
“In 1995, while I was working on the
Adriatic coast, I met my wife Sabrina, with
whom I shared the desire to create something
of our own. With her in the dining room and
me in the kitchen, we came back to the area
where I was born, Val Grana.Our passion for
this profession resulted in the Locanda del
Pilone, where I’ve been able to cultivate my
creativity, offering cooking that takes as
much care with the preparation as with the
choice of the ingredients. Above all, though,
its an ongoing process of exploration and
experimentation.”
Specialities
Piccione disossato arrostito con scalogno
al moscato passito.
A STROLL THROUGH
Alba: the historic centre of the “capital of the
Langhe” has a layout that is almost circular
in form and numerous towers, typical features
of medieval villages. The cathedral of San
Lorenzo dates back to the first half of the
12th century, to which period the underlying
Romanesque structure can be traced.
Antique buildings including Casa Riva, Casa
Marro, and Palazzo Mermet overlook the
principal mews. In Piazza Risorgimento, the
Palazzo del Comune (Town Hall).
The Restaurant
Typical Piedmontese and creative cuisine.
Atmospheric space with a view.
Two rooms; seats 25.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the world,
superlative vintages and formats; 450 labels.
47

Mariuccia Roggero Ferrero
San Marco Via Alba, 136 - Canelli (AT)
Tel. 0141.823.544
e-mail: info@sanmarcoristorante.it
www. sanmarcoristorante.it
Closed Tuesday evenings and Wednesdays
and held training demonstrations at the
highest levels.
What she says about herself
“In my cooking, I pay a great deal of
attention to selecting the ingredients,
always respecting when they are in season.
I love studying both the well- and lesserknown
traditional recipes, rediscovering
forgotten dishes, which I experiment with,
modify and improve. It’s an ongoing effort
of historical and practical exploration.”
The Chef
Mariuccia Roggero Ferrero.
Born in Santo Stefano Belbo (CN),
on 10 December 1953.
Signora Mariuccia has cooking inscribed in
her DNA: As an adolescent, she kept a
notebook in which she meticulously wrote
down Piedmont’s best traditional recipes
for desserts and other dishes. Her genuine
passion for the profession was immediately
unleashed, stimulating her creativity and
desire to develop the image of the
restaurant she worked in. A brilliant career
that began at just 18 years of age, with
distinctions and awards on a national and
international level. Legitimately considered
one of the best chefs in Piedmont as well as
in Italy, Signora Mariuccia was soon asked
to give classes in haut cuisine, for example
at the prestigious ICIF (Italian Culinary
Institute for Foreigners) in Costigliole
d’Asti. She has frequently spent time
abroad in Canada, the United States,
Japan, Germany, and Switzerland, where
she has offered her dishes in the best
European and international restaurants,
Specialities
Tajarin al tuorlo d’uovo con burro
aromatizzato alle erbe (con tartufo
bianco), finanziera nobile all’Astigiana.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative cuisine.
Elegant space with cosy atmosphere.
One room and small tavern; seats 45+14.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu, Business
Lunch Menu, special theme menus for
gastronomic gatherings. Wine list with
national, regional, and international wines
from around the world, superlative
vintages and formats; 550 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Canelli: the seventeenth-century castle now
owned by the Gancia family; the “underground
cathedrals,” a veritable architectonic
estate of cellars that run beneath the entire
city. Every June, Canelli relives the “siege” in
one of Europe’s most evocative historical commemorations.
48

Alfredo Russo
Dolce Stil Novo Via San Pietro, 71 - Cirié (TO)
Tel. 011.921.11.10
e-mail: rist.dolcestilnovo@libero.it
www.dolcestilnovo.it
Closed Mondays, Tuesdays through Saturdays
at lunch, Sunday evenings
The Chef
Alfredo Russo.
Born in Turin, on 10 April 1968.
Alfredo Russo was very precocious in discovering
his vocation: When he was just
thirteen years-old, he developed a passion
for cooking and enrolled in hotel school.
Upon the completion of his studies, he
worked in three different restaurants in
Piedmont, all of which had received a
Michelin star. At the end of the ’90s, he
decided to strike out on his own, opening
the Dolce Stil Novo together with his wife.
After just three years, he was awarded the
Michelin star and included among the
Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe. Two
recent successes: the Dolce Stil Novo was
chosen to organise the gala dinner for the
visiting Olympic committee in the city of
Turin, and Alfredo Russo was named the
best young chef of the year in the 2004
edition of the Espresso guide.
What he says about himself
“Every day we prepare various kinds of
fresh bread to accompany the dishes on the
menu; our cheeses come from mountaingrazed
animals in the nearby valleys; most
A STROLL THROUGH
Cirié: the centre with Via Vittorio Emanuele II,
which was Via Maestra during the Middle
Ages, and divides the village and its districts
in half. The Provana tower and the facades of
several stately buildings bear witness to the
town’s medieval past. Also noteworthy are the
dome of San Giovanni Battista and the
Palazzo D’Oria.
of our vegetables, fruit, and aromatic herbs
are organically and naturally grown in the
garden of the restaurant; and all our fresh
pastas and desserts are artisanally produced
in the restaurant kitchen. I’m innovative in
my cooking, and have an unmistakable taste
for games and surprise – one of the most distinctive
features of the New Italian Style.”
Specialities
Vitello tonnato in scatola con caramello
agli agrumi, “The cheese game” (cheeses
in equilibrium), fegato di fassone con agro
di ciliegie.
The Restaurant
Sophisticated and elegant space in an antique,
“old Piedmont”-style house from
1800 with barrel-vaulted rooms, exposed
brick, and original wood floors.
Two rooms; seats 40. A la Carte Menu and
3 Tasting Menus. Wine list with regional
and national wines; 350 labels.
49

Marco Sacco
Piccolo Lago Via Turati, 87 - Verbania
Tel. 0323.586.792
e-mail: h.piccololago@stresa.net
www.piccololago.it
Closed Mondays
tradition of our region, which provides a
wealth of stimulation. Drawing my
inspiration from modern cooking, I also
take great care with the presentation of my
dishes, which are always the result of my
exploration of this area’s typical products.
I consider myself very lucky in that regard,
since the mountains and lake are an
endless source of inspiration.”
Specialities
Hamburger di salmerino del Mergozzo
leggermente affumicato, pane in cassetta
al balsamico, cipolle in tempura, maionese
ai tre profumi.
The Chef
Marco Sacco.
Born in Premosello Chiovenda (VB),
on 24 January 1965.
Marco Sacco’s curriculum vitae is an
interesting one. Initially learning under the
guidance of his father, he continued his
training with numerous experiences in
international restaurants run by prestigious
chefs: in France at the Moulin de Mougin
with Roger Vergés and at the Oasis in
Cannes with Raimbault, and in Spain at
the Esguard with Miguel Sanchez Romera.
Finally, this thorough and exacting chef
completed his preparation with time spent
in Vissani’s kitchen in Baschi.
What he says about himself
“I’ve tried to develop my own personal
and creative cuisine, but based on my
dad’s recipes, taken from the gastronomic
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Atmospheric space with a view.
Two rooms; seats 70. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu. Wine list with wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 1,000 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Verbania: the regional centre comprises Intra,
Suna and Pallanza. The latter has a wealth of
elegant residences immersed in enchanting
gardens, including Villa Taranto, which boasts
one of the world’s most important botanical
complexes; Villa San Remigio with its
succession of Italian-style terraces and English
gardens; and Villa Giulia. The lakefront offers a
view of the islands of the Borromeo golf.
The archipelago of the three major islands
comprises Isola Bella (Beautiful Island), Isola
Madre (Mother Island), and the Isola Superiore
(Superior Island), commonly referred to as the
“dei Pescatori,” or “fishermen’s,” island.
50

Davide Scabin
Combal.Zero
Piazza Mafalda di Savoia - Rivoli (TO)
Tel. 011.95.65.222
e-mail: combal-zero@combal.org
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
The Chef
Davide Scabin.
Born in Rivoli (TO),
on 9 September 1965.
Paying attention to the aesthetics of a dish
to make the delicious even more
appealing, Davide Scabin is considered an
authoritative food designer. He was
recently asked to teach the Food Design
workshop held for students of industrial
design at the Politecnico in Turin.
What he says about himself
“Contemporary art, innovation, and
creative cuisine. I like to think of dishes as
objects of reverse engineering, taking apart
food to put the ingredients back together
again in an unusual way: semi-solid soups,
semi-liquid pizzas, and cyber-eggs. The
dishes I cook are in constant evolution, and
I number each new creation like a new
edition of software. For example, my latest
version of ‘carne all’albese’ is Albese 2.4.”
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Atmospheric space inside the
Castello di Rivoli (Rivoli Castle) with a
view. One room; seats 50. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu, Creative Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
500 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Rivoli: the castle became the property of the
Savoy in 1280, was sold to the Commune of
Rivoli in 1883, restored by the Regione
Piemonte (Piedmont Regional Authority) in
1979, and has housed the Museo di Arte
Contemporanea (Museum of Contemporary
Art) since 1984. Villa Fiorito, a building
whose oldest parts date back to the 17th
century. The morainal hill of Rivoli-Avigliana
is a delightful, peaceful green oasis located
just a few kilometres from the centre of town.
51

Flavio Scaiola
Vecchio Tre Stelle Via Rio Sordo, 13
Loc. Tre Stelle Sud - Barbaresco (CN)
Tel. 0173.638.192
e-mail: ristorante@vecchiotrestelle.it
www.vecchiotrestelle.it
Closed Tuesdays
The Chef
Flavio Scaiola.
Born in Alba (CN), on 4 February 1964.
Prior to 1987, when he acquired
the Vecchio Tre Stelle, becoming its owner
and chef, Flavio Scaiola deepened
and enriched his store of experiences in
Switzerland and
on the Ligurian
Coast.
What he says about
himself
“I was born in Alba and
graduated from the hotel
school in Mondovì.
When I was twenty-three,
my passion for cooking led
me to take over what is now
the Vecchio Tre Stelle, which
was a country trattoria at
the time.
Today, it is an elegant
restaurant and hotel with a
national and international
clientele.”
Specialities
Filettino di coniglio con foie gras e gamberi
di fiume spadellati all’aceto di champagne.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant
space. One room; seats 35.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
550 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Barbaresco: the “Torre antica” (“Ancient
tower”) around which the urban settlement
developed. In the confraternity of San Donato,
the Enoteca Regionale del Barbaresco, a
prestigious organisation created to support the
area’s wine growing and production.
52

Fulvio Siccardi
Le Clivie Località Carretta, 4
Piobesi d’Alba (CN)
Tel. 0173.619.261
e-mail: info@leclivie.com
www.leclivie.com
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
Specialities
Uovo “verticale”, ragù di zucca, vellutata
al burro e tartufo bianco d’Alba.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese and creative
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room, seats 50/60.
A la Carte Menu, Tasting Menu with 4 or
6 courses. Wine list with regional,
national, and international wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 600 labels.
The Chef
Fulvio Siccardi.
Born in Turin, on 29 September 1969.
Just 34 years-old, he has worked in
numerous important kitchens in Italy: the
Cascinale Nuovo in Isola d’Asti, the
Cambio in Turin, the Hotel Ducol in
Sestriere, the Hotel Relais in Punta Ala,
the Osteria dell’Arco in Alba, and the
Hotel Castello Rosso in Costigliole.
What he says about himself
“I’ve always had a passion for cooking and
wines: I’m constantly driven by the desire
to grow in positive ways, and I take
advantage of the excellent ingredients that
our region offers in order not to
misrepresent it. I love vegetables, oil, fish
and meat, and I dedicate particular
attention to the preparation of my
desserts.”
A STROLL THROUGH
What's worth seeing in the area: Bra with the
Zizzola, the characteristic octagonal structure
that has come to symbolise the city. The
church of Santa Chiara, built at the volition
of the Poor Clares (Colletine nuns), who had
settled in the area beginning in 1633. Note
the church’s unusual perforated double
cupola with its fascinating play of light.
The interior is adorned with stuccowork.
53

Alessandra Strocco
Vittoria Via Roma, 14 - Tigliole (AT)
Tel. 0141.667.123
e-mail: giampieromusso@libero.it
www.ristorantevittoria.it
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
increasingly successful, especially when
prepared with care, love, and knowledge of
the ingredients. We have our own garden in
which we grow vegetables and aromatic
herbs; our vineyards produce the
Grignolino and Barbera. For everything
else, we look for the best producers in our
region, to which we are deeply attached. We
believe in the results of traditional cooking
methods, even as we try to innovate them
with interesting new – though never
reckless – combinations.”
The Chef
Alessandra Strocco.
Born in Tigliole (AT),
on 14 September 1958.
In 1977, Alessandra Strocco earned her
degree in accountancy, but in fact she
preferred helping her parents in the
kitchen of the family restaurant, which
was awarded its first Michelin star that
very year. In ’79, she married and decided
to carry on the family activity, helping her
mother at the stove. The satisfactions were
immediate and many – and included
catering for the Holy Father during his last
visit to Turin.
What she says about herself
“The cuisine of the region is proving to be
Specialities
Ravioli di coniglio con salsa al Barbera
d’Asti.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative cuisine.
Historical, sophisticated and elegant space
located in an 18th-century building since
1928. Three rooms; seats 150. A la Carte,
Tasting, “Chef’s Recommendations,” and
Vegetarian Menu. Wine list with regional,
national, and international wines from
around the world, superlative vintages and
formats; 560 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Tigliole: the Museo Storico “L’arte del Sellaio”
(“The Art of the Saddler” Historical
Museum). Cycling, walking, and horseback
riding trails. Not far away, the city of Asti,
with its elliptic medieval core crossed by
narrow streets. The cathedral, one of
Piedmont’s most important 14th-century
Gothic churches, and the Torre Troiana
(Trojan Tower), commonly referred to as the
“torre dell’orologio,” or “clock tower.”
54

Mariangela Susigan
Gardenia Corso Torino, 9 - Caluso (TO)
Tel. 011.983.2249
e-mail: gardenia1@aliceposta.it
Closed Thursdays and Fridays at lunch
The Chef
Mariangela Susigan.
Born in Toulouse (France),
on 1 August 1956.
Originally from France, Mariangela
Susigan has been living in Caluso, her
adopted city, for years now. She describes
herself as self-taught, but her superb
cooking draws on many experiences: at the
restaurant Le Nôtre in Paris, the Antica
Osteria del Ponte in Cassinetta di
Lugagnano, and the Uliassi in Senigallia.
In 1977, together with her husband, she
opened the Gardenia, which is now among
the restaurants distinguished with the
Michelin star.
What she says about herself
“I offer innovative dishes, creative versions
of traditional and Canavesian recipes. My
natural aesthetic sense also plays a part in
the preparation of each dish, in the sense
that I want it to be ‘attractive’ chromatically
as well. My philosophy? Only fresh
ingredients of the best quality, and an
ongoing exploration of the region’s products,
such as the cheeses of mountain-grazed
animals. I get my vegetables from the
farmer’s market, and only use select and
certified meats.”
Specialities
Ravioli di salame di patata cotto al forno
su passata di pere martine al mosto d’uva.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine. Atmospheric space located in
a 19th-century building with garden. Three
rooms; seats 45. A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with
wines from
around the
world,
superlative
vintages
and
formats;
700
labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: Mazzé with the castle of the
same name dating back to the 14th century;
the Castello di Masino (Masino Castle) from
the 11th century, which was transformed into
a residence in the 18th century, with vast
English gardens where the Museo delle
Carrozze (Carriage Museum) is located.
Ivrea: historical and modern city. On the one
hand, the castle of 1358 and the early 18thcentury
church of San Gaudenzio; on the
other, the MAAM, or Museo a cielo aperto dell’architettura
moderna olivettiana (Open-Air
Museum Of Modern Architecture from the
Olivetto area): modern industrial, residential,
and service architecture, with contributions
by internationally renowned architects.
55

Davide Testa
L’Ostu dij Baloss Via Gualtieri, 38 - Saluzzo (CN)
Tel. 0175.248.618
www.ostudijbaloss.it
Closed Sundays and Mondays at lunch
The Chef
Davide Testa.
Born in Bra (CN), on 18 July 1968.
This thirty-five year-old chef has suffered
no lack of affirmation for his skills, which
he perfected thanks to, among other
things, periods spent working in the
Boccondivino in Bra, the Osteria dell'Arco
in Alba, and the Chiocciola in Cuneo.
What he says about himself
“My cooking is the result of the experience
I gained travelling throughout Italy, where
I learned about gastronomic traditions
different from our local ones.
I offer Piedmontese dishes – but not only.”
Specialities
Ravioli di fagianella con crema di
formaggi caprini e tarfufo, muscolo di
castrato brasato al barbera.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional, and
creative cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant
space.
Three rooms; seats 60. A la Carte, Tasting,
and “Chef’s Recommendations” Menu.
Wine list with national wines;
720 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Saluzzo: the cathedral (15th century), a late
Gothic-style building that holds precious
works of art. The Torre Civica (City Tower) of
1464; the church of San Giovanni, Saluzzo’s
most evocative monument; the 15th-century
Museo Civico di Casa Cavassa (Cavassa
House Municipal Museum) which exhibits
furnishings from the 15th through 19th
centuries, as well as works of art including the
magnificent panel of the Madonna of Mercy.
In the environs: at Manta, the 14th-century
fortress embellished with splendid frescoes.
At Revello: the Abbazia di Staffarda (Stafford
Abbey), founded by Cistercian monks in the
first half of the 12th century.
56

Erik Trozza
Nuovo Carretto Via Biaune, 4 - Cirié (TO)
Tel. 011.920.32.06
e-mail: ristorantecarretto@jumpy.it
Closed Mondays
The Chef
Erik Trozza.
Born in Ivrea (TO), on 8
March 1980.
An extremely young chef,
who developed his talents
at the Des Iles Borromeés
in Stresa, the Planibel in
La Thuile, the Approdo
di Pettenasco on Lake
Orta, and the Antica
Zecca in Caselle Torinese.
What he says about
himself
“I enrolled in the dining
room/bar course in hotel school, even
though in reality I’d already figured out
that working in the kitchen would allow
much more room for my creativity and,
above all, for my desire to see dishes and
courses produced by my own hands and
sensibility. So I decided to devote myself
entirely to the culinary arts. Here, at the
Nuovo Carretto, I began as the assistant
cook to Francesco Eblovi, who then
handed over the reins of the kitchen to me.
I like to offer traditional regional cuisine,
which I try to personalise by starting from
the original recipes, reinventing the
presentation of the dishes, and trying to
give them a new lightness.”
Three rooms, seats 50.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
1,000 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Ciriè: the dome of San Giovanni Battista,
Palazzo D’Oria, and Villa Remmert. The
Cappella di Robaronzino (Robaronzino
Chapel), and the churches of Santo Sudario
(the Sacred Sudarium), San Giuseppe, and
San Martino di Liramo. An antiques street
market is held on the third Sunday of the
month in April, September, and June.
Specialities
Zuppa di lingua.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
57

Andrea Vannelli
Al Gatto Nero Corso Turati, 14 - Torino
Tel. 011.590.414
e-mail: info@gattonero.it
www.gattonero.it
Closed Sundays
Specialities
Chateaubriand di fassone alle bacche di
ginepro e insalata tiepida di mare.
The Restaurant
Mediterranean and classic cuisine.
Vintage ’60s space. One room; seats 58.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
800 labels.
The Chef
Andrea Vannelli.
Born in Turin, on 9
September 1967. Andrea
Vannelli has been working in the
Gatto Nero since 1999, even though one
could say he was practically born there. In
fact, the restaurant, founded by his
grandfather, was passed on to his father,
and then on to him. Three generations of
cooks in a restaurant that follows – with
complete conviction – the path of quality.
What he says about himself
“I learned how to cook from my dad, who
passed on his passion for tradition to me.”
A STROLL THROUGH
Turin: the Parco del Valentino (Park of
Valentino), 550 thousand square metres of
green with cycling trails, walks, and athletic
opportunities. In summer, one can navigate
the River Po on board the steamboats
Valentino and Valentina, or with canoes
rented from the various landing stages.
Within the park lies the Borgo Medioevale
(Medieval Village), the Promotrice delle Belle
Arti (Promoter of the Fine Arts), and the
Castello Valentino (Valentino Castle).
58

Lidia Vanzino Alciati e Luca Zecchin
Guido da Costigliole
Loc. San Maurizio, 39 - S. Stefano Belbo (TO)
Tel. 0141.841.900 - 0141.844.455
e-mail: LIDIAsrl@virgilio.it
Closed Tuesdays
The Chef
Lidia Vanzino Alciati e Luca Zecchin.
Born in Costigliole (AT),
on 3 August 1930.
Born in Asti, on 8 August 1980.
A very great chef assisted by her young
pupil for a legendary restaurant of
international renown.
What she says about herself
“Together with Guido, in 1961, I founded
this restaurant, which was originally in
Costigliole and has now moved to San
Stefano Belbo, an antique 17th-century
monastery, and has another branch in
Pollenzo near the Agenzia, which houses the
Università di Scienze Gastronomiche. I’m
assisted in the kitchen by Luca Zecchin, who
has been collaborating with me since 2002”.
world, superlative vintages and formats;
900 labels. Wines by the glass: 40 labels.
Two typical customs: the “diritto di
tappo,” or “cork right” (one can bring
one’s own wine, paying the restaurant a 10
euro fee for the right to do so), and “buta
stupa” (the unfinished bottle is re-corked
and given to the customer).
Specialities
Agnolotti del plin al sugo d’arrosto.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 60.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
A STROLL THROUGH
Santo Stefano Belbo: the native town of Cesare
Pavese, whose house-museum one can visit
here. Every weekend in the month of July, the
historical centre of Santo Stefano Belbo hosts
music and performances by actors.
59

Pier Giuseppe Viazzi
Arianna Via Umberto - Cavaglietto (NO)
Tel. 0322.806.134
e-mail: jrearianna@libero.it
Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays at lunch
Specialities
All our dishes.
The Restaurant
Moderately creative cuisine.
Sophisticated and elegant space.
One room; seats 30.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional, national, and
French wines; 450 labels.
The Chef
Pier Giuseppe Viazzi.
Born in Gattinara (VC),
on 21 November 1957.
The kitchens in which Pier Giuseppe
Viazzi gained his experience are numerous
as well as international: the Hotel Des Iles
Borromées in Stresa, the Hilton in Milan,
the Hilton in Stratford, the Hotel Royal la
Baule, and the Auberge de Condé la Ferté
sous Jouarre in France.
What he says about himself
“After having completed my studies at the
hotel school in Stresa and having grown
professionally in many European hotels and
restaurants, in 1980 I came back to the
family restaurant to carry on the tradition.”
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: an “island” of Italian prairie,
the Riserva Naturale delle Baragge (Baragge
Nature Reserve). An absolutely unique
environment in which nature reigns supreme
with some rare examples of oaks, birches,
hornbeams, and Sylvester pines. Once very
extensive, the reserve has now been reduced to
several islands due to land reclamation works
in favour of rice growing. Within the area,
self-guided itineraries as well as one led by an
archaeologist can be followed, and there are
horseback riding and cycling trails.
60

Claudio Vicina Mazzaretto
Casa Vicina Via Massena, 66 - Torino
Tel. 011.590.949
e-mail: casavicina@libero.it
www.casavicina.it
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
The Chef
Claudio Vicina Mazzaretto.
Born in Ivrea (TO), on 25 March 1967.
At the Casa Vicina, running the restaurant
is a family passion. In fact, since 1983, it
has been owned by the Vicina Lazzaretto
brothers. Prior to opening the restaurant,
Claudio, a master chef, ripened his skills in
the renowned restaurant Guido in
Costigliole d’Asti.
What he says about himself
“I consider myself a professional, deeply in
love with my work and firmly tied to the
values of Canavesian tradition and an indepth
knowledge of basic cooking; I pay a
great deal of attention to preparing the
latest trends, and to the presentation of my
dishes.”
Specialities
Batsuà, agnolotti Vecchia Eporedia,
faraona novella composta in salmì.
The Restaurant
Characteristic Piedmontese, regional,
creative, and international cuisine.
Atmospheric space. Two rooms; seats 50.
A la Carte, Tasting,
“Chef’s Recommendations”
and “Canavesian” Menu.
Wine list with regional, national,
and international wines from
around the world,
superlative vintages
and formats;
550 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Turin: the Borgo Mediovale in the Parco
del Valentino; the Fontana dei Dodici
Mesi, inaugurated to celebrate the fiftieth
anniversary of the Statuto Albertino; the
GAM, or Galleria Civica di Arte Moderna
e Contemporanea at Via Magenta, 31, on
the corner of Corso Galileo Ferraris.
61

Sergio Vineis
Il Patio Via Oremo, 14 - Pollone (BI)
Tel. 015.615.68
e-mail: ilpatio@libero.it
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
the first symptoms of what would soon
prove to be my disease: Cooking. After
almost twenty years, at this point we’ve
lost all hope of recovery.”
Specialities
Galletta di cardi con paletta biellese,
cipolle appassite e salsa al fegato grasso;
astice con carciofo fritto, spinaci, salsa di
mandorle e olio ai crostacei.
The Chef
Sergio Vineis.
Born in Biella, on 1 August 1960.
Sergio Vineis, whose formation took place
in privately-owned restaurants, is a chef of
great character – just like his cooking.
What he says about himself
“Following engineering studies and a brief
experience at university, I began to show
The Restaurant
Mediterranean, creative, and regional
cuisine. Sophisticated and elegant space.
Two rooms; seats 45 for A la Carte meal
and 100 for banquets. A la Carte and
Tasting Menu.
Wine list with regional and national wines;
350 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
Pollone: the garden of the Riserva Naturale
Speciale Parco della Burcina (Park of Burcina
Special Nature Riserve), famous for its
collection of rhododendrons, which bloom
between mid-May and early June.
In the environs: Graglia, with the sanctuary
dedicated to the Madonna of Loreto, which
stands in a panoramic spot overlooking the
Biellese plain. Oropa, with the sanctuary at
the foot of Mount Mucrone, a famed pilgrim
destination. Biella: with its dome, church of
San Sebastiano and the Museo Civico
(Municipal Museum).
62

Gian Piero Vivalda
Antica Corona Reale
Via Fossano, 11 - Cervere (CN)
Tel. 0172.474.132
e-mail: claudioviv@yahoo.it
Closed Tuesday evenings and Wednesdays
The Chef
Gian Piero Vivalda.
Born in Cuneo,
on 24 December 1968.
Prior to “coming to a stop”
at the Antica Corona Reale,
the historical family
restaurant, Gian Piero
Vivalda refined his art in
kitchens of undisputed
prestige in France: the
Relais & Chateaux Georges
Blanc and the Carrèe de
Feuillantes. He received the
Cuoco dell’Anno (Cook of
the Year) 2003 award.
What he says about
himself
“I’m on a constant quest for excellence,
both in the choice of my ingredients and in
the combinations I offer.”
Specialities
Lumache opercolate ai porri di Cervere,
piccione di cascina arrosto all’aglio rosa
con scaloppa di foie gras in ristretto di
Marsala.
The Restaurant
Characteristic regional and creative
cuisine. Historical space.
Three rooms; seats 50.
A la Carte and Tasting Menu.
Wine list with wines from around the
world, superlative vintages and formats;
700 labels.
A STROLL THROUGH
The environs: the city of Bra with the Zizzola,
the characteristic octagonal structure that has
come to symbolise the city. The church of
Santa Chiara, built at the volition of the Poor
Clares (Colletine nuns), who had settled in the
area beginning in 1633. In Pollenzo, home of
the Università delle Scienze Gastronomiche,
one can visit the castle, one of the 14thcentury
Savoy residences, which was modified
with neo-Gothic forms in the early 19th
century. The church of San Vittore of 1840 is
connected to the castle. In the area: Cherasco,
a city of profound culture that retains its
ancient Roman grid layout. Here, one can
admire superb buildings such as the Palazzo
Municipale (Town Hall), the Torre Civica
(City Tower), and the manor house on Viale
Salmatoris built by Luchino Visconti in 1348.
63

A taste of the characteristic products
Every corner of Piedmont offers exceptional products.
On the map, several of the wines and products recognised by nationally regulated classifications are
indicated for each area promoted by the Agenzie Turistiche Locali (Local Tourist Agencies).
Alessandria
Wines: Brachetto d'Acqui - Gavi e Cortese di Gavi
Dolcetto d'Acqui - Cortese Alto Monferrato - Colli Tortonesi
Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese
Products: Robiola di Roccaverano - Filetto baciato di Ponzone
Chicory - Pan di zucchero casalese - Montebore
Asti
Wines: Moscato d'Asti e Asti Spumante - Brachetto d'Acqui - Barbera d'Asti
Freisa d'Asti - Grignolino d'Asti - Loazzolo
Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato
Products: Robiola di Roccaverano - Ivory thistle from Isola d'Asti
Asti yellow and red onion
Biella Wines: Lessona - Coste della Sesia
Products: Biellese lamb - Biellese toma - Apples indigenous to the Biellese
Canavese e
Valli di Lanzo
Wines: Erbaluce di Caluso - Carema Canavese
Products: Salami from Turgia - Toma di Lanzo
Cuneo
Wines: Colline saluzzesi
Products: Castelmagno - Raschera - Leeks from Cervere - White chicken from
Tomino di S. Giacomo di Boves – Sambucan lamb
Distretto dei Wines: Ghemme
Laghi d'Orta Products: Bresaola from Val d'Ossola - Kid from Val Vigezzo
Mortadella from Orta
Langhe
e Roero
Wines: Barbaresco - Barolo - Barbera d'Alba - Dolcetto d'Alba
Nebbiolo d'Alba
Products: Bra - Murazzano - Hazelnuts - White truffles - Peaches from Canale
Snails from Cherasco - Sausage from Bra
Valle di Susa Wines: Pinerolese Doux d'Henry - Pinerolese Ramiè
e Pinerolese Products: Piedmontese toma - Grano Saraceno (buckwheat) -
Chestnuts from Valle di Susa - Murianengo - Seirass del fen
Novara Wines: Colline Novaresi - Fara
Products: Gorgonzola - Taleggio - Rice - Biscottini di Novara
Torino e area
metropolitana
Valsesia
e Vercelli
Wines: Collina Torinese - Freisa di Chieri
Products: Carmagnola sweet peppers - Moncalieri Tripe - Cherries from Pecetto
Wines: Gattinara - Coste della Sesia - Bramaterra
Products: Valsesian goat - Toma from Val Sesia - Rice

Piedmont
Wines:
8 D.O.C.G. (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin)
45 D.O.C. (Controlled Designation of Origin)
Products:
10 D.O.P. (Protected Designation of Origin - P.D.O.)
2 I.G.P. (Protected Geographical Indication - P.G.I.)
369 P.A.T. (Traditional Agro-Food Products)
The characteristic wines and products noted above were selected in collaboration with
the Settore Regionale Tutela e Valorizzazione prodotti agricoli
(Regional Authority for the Preservation and Development of agricultural products).

Directory of Piedmont ATL (Local Tourist Agencies)
For information
and to request materials
and news regarding tourist
activities in Piedmont, please
contact the following offices.
AGENZIA TURISTICA REGIONALE
PER LA PROMOZIONE DEL PIEMONTE
Via G. Viotti, 2 - 10121 TORINO
Tel. 011.5541111
Fax 011.5627176
E-mail: atrinfo@atr.piemonte.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DI ALESSANDRIA
“ALEXALA”
P.zza Santa Maria di Castello, 14 - 15100
ALESSANDRIA
Tel. 0131.220056
Fax 0131.220546
Sito internet: www.alexala.it
E-mail: info@alexala.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DI ASTI
Piazza Alfieri, 29 - 14100 ASTI
Tel. 0141.530357
Fax 0141.538200
Sito internet: www.terredasti.it
E-mail: atl@axt.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DI BIELLA
P.zza Vittorio Veneto, 3 - 13900 BIELLA
Tel. 015.351128
Fax 015.34612
Sito internet:www.atl.biella.it
E-mail:info@atl.biella.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DI CUNEO
Via Vittorio Amedeo II, 13 - 12100 CUNEO
Tel. 0171.690217
Fax 0171.602773
Sito internet: www.cuneoholiday.com
E-mail: info@cuneoholiday.com
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DELLE
LANGHE E DEL ROERO
P.zza Medford, 3 - 12051 ALBA (CN)
Tel. 0173.35833
Fax 0173.363878
Sito internet: www.langheroero.it
E-mail: info@langheroero.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE “DISTRETTO
TURISTICO DEI LAGHI” Scrl.
Via Principe Tomaso, 70/72 - 28838 STRESA (VB)
Tel. 0323.30416
Fax 0323.934335
Sito internet: www.distrettolaghi.it
E-mail: infoturismo@distrettolaghi.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DELLA PROVINCIA
DI NOVARA
Baluardo Q. Sella, 40 - 28100 NOVARA
Tel. 0321.394059
Fax 0321.631063
Sito internet: www.turismonovara.it
E-mail: novaratl@tin.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DELL’AREA METROPOLITANA
DI TORINO “TURISMO TORINO”
Atrium Padiglione Olimpico
Piazza Solferino - 10123 TORINO
Tel. 011.535181
Fax 011.530073
Sito internet: www.turismotorino.org
E-mail: info@turismotorino.org
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DEL
CANAVESE E DELLE VALLI DI LANZO
C.so Vercelli, 1 - 10015 IVREA (TO)
Tel. 0125.618131
Fax 0125.618140
Sito internet: www.canavese-vallilanzo.it
E-mail: info@canavese-vallilanzo.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE DELLA
VALLE DI SUSA E DEL PINEROLESE “MONTAGNE DOC”
V.le Giolitti, 7/9 - 10064 PINEROLO (TO)
Tel. 0121.795589
Fax 0121.372084
Sito internet: www.montagnedoc.it
E-mail: pinerolo@montagnedoc.it
AGENZIA DI ACCOGLIENZA E PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA LOCALE “TURISMO
VALSESIA E VERCELLI“
C.so Roma, 38 - 13019 VARALLO (VC)
Tel. 0163.564404
Fax 0163.53091
Sito internet: www.turismovalsesiavercelli.it
E-mail: atlvarallo@libero.it

DIREZIONE TURISMO, SPORT E PARCHI
SETTORE COORDINAMENTO
DELLA PROMOZIONE TURISTICA
Via A. Avogadro, 30 - 10121 Torino
Tel. 011.4321504 - Fax 011.4323925
e-mail: promozione.turistica@regione.piemonte.it
Managing Director:
Dott.ssa Anna Maria Costa
AGENZIA REGIONALE PER LA PROMOZIONE
TURISTICA DEL PIEMONTE
Via A. Avogadro, 30 - 10121 Torino
Tel. 011.5541111 - Fax 011.5627176
e-mail: atrinfo@atr.piemonte.it
OSSERVATORIO TURISTICO REGIONALE
Via A. Avogadro, 30 - 10121 Torino
Tel. 011.4322479 - Fax 011.4325718
e-mail: osservatorio.turismo@regione.piemonte.it
www.regione.piemonte.it/turismo
www.piemonte-emozioni.it
TOLL-FREE NUMBERS
l Italy 800 329 329
F France 0 800 907 674
D Germany 0 800 181 94 57
GB U.K. 0 800 967 951
E Spain 900 993 943
CH Switzerland 0 800 551 129
RA Argentina 00 39 800 303 47 34
Other Nations 00 39 011 522 10 35
(this call is not toll-free)
Concept: Franco Bergamino,
Cristina Bergonzo, Anna Maria Costa,
Roberto Fontana, Francesca Martinengo
Editorial coordinating:
Simonetta Avigdor, Cristina Bergonzo
Research:
Cristina Bergonzo, Roberto Fontana
Photographic contributions:
cover photo and creative touches: Elena Biringhelli
interiors: Elena Biringhelli, photo archives
The CHEFs’ staff, photo archives
Assessorato al Turismo REGIONE PIEMONTE
Graphic design: CLIPS - Torino